Quick Links

Development Outcome Tracking System (DOTS)

In 2005, IFC launched the Development Outcome Tracking System (DOTS).IFC uses (DOTS) to measure the development effectiveness of its investment and advisory services.

DOTS allows for real-time tracking of development results throughout the project cycle. At the outset of a project, IFC's staff members identify standardized indicators with baselines and targets. They track progress throughout supervision, which allows for real-time feedback into operations, until project closure.

For Investments Services, the overall DOTS score is a synthesis of four performance categories that are informed by standardized industry-specific indicators. To obtain a positive rating, a project must make a contribution to the host country’s development.

For Advisory Services, the overall DOTS score or development-effectiveness rating is a synthesis of the overall strategic relevance, effectiveness (as measured by project outputs, outcomes, and impacts), and efficiency of the services. At project completion, intended results are compared with achieved results. Some results—medium-term outcomes and longer-term impacts—may be unknown at project completion but can be examined post-completion.

Value for IFC's Clients

We are now moving towards results systems that will add value to our clients by helping them understand their broader impact, in ways that can add value to their business.

As we work to rationalize our development impact measures, we will continue to use DOTS, as well as the IDGs, which have been useful to support implementation of strategy in many parts of our business.